Outlook is positive for system integrators, CSIA

Automation Integrator Guide Improved demand, fewer project delays, and a more positive outlook for 2014 are what members of the Control System Integrators Association (CSIA) surveyed by JP Morgan in October expected, with 80% of respondents expecting revenue growth in the next 12 months.

Bob Lowe, Lynda J. Patterson, FASAE, CAE

12/17/2013

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Members of the Control System Integrators Association (CSIA) surveyed by JP Morgan reported improved demand, fewer project delays, and a more positive outlook for 2014.

The survey, conducted in October, showed 80% of respondents expect revenue to grow in the next 12 months. This is the third joint JP Morgan-CSIA survey, which gives analysts insight into trends in the manufacturing industry, where control system integrators serve as a channel to the automation equipment market.

System integrators identified food and beverage as an improving end market, followed by original equipment manufacturers, and oil and gas. Niche markets such as life sciences and defense also are improving. Auto, which had been cited as a strong end market in past surveys, appears to have leveled off. Participants in the survey receive written results, which they can use in their own business forecasting.

Joint survey for members

The joint survey is one of several new benefits of membership that CSIA offers its growing membership. Beginning in fall 2013 and continuing through the 2014 Executive Conference, CSIA is offering a series of free monthly webinars that focus on proactive leadership during times of change. The webinars build on the fundamentals of the CSIA Best Practices and Benchmarks Manual, the playbook for managing a successful control system integration business.

Record attendance is expected at the 2014 Executive Conference. “Moving at the Speed of Change” will be held April 23-26 in San Diego. An introduction to a new online “marketplace” for control system integrators and industry partners, special events for international attendees, and a full complement of speakers and breakout sessions will be offered, as well as multiple opportunities to network with integrator and partner members.

Other new benefits include a streamlined certification process, with one point of contact and a central repository for all documents related to the audit and CSIA Certification process. The association continues to build public awareness of control system integration and the benefits of retaining CSIA members through its revamped website, www.controlsys.org, article placements, and speaking at industry events, such as the ARC Industry Forum.

Membership growth

More than 80 new members have joined CSIA in the first 10 months of the year. Membership now includes 91 companies headquartered outside of the United States. Latin America offers the greatest opportunity for growth, which is aided by the recent appointment of a Latin America coordinator based in Mexico. Founded in 1994, the Control System Integrators Association is a not-for-profit, global professional association that seeks to advance the industry of control system integration. Control system integrators use their engineering, technical, and business skills to help manufacturers and others automate their industrial equipment and systems. CSIA members provide a range of services in dozens of industries.

- Bob Lowe is executive director and Lynda J. Patterson, FASAE, CAE, is president of the Control System Integrators Association. Edited by Mark T. Hoske, content manager, CFE Media, Control Engineering, Plant Engineering, and Consulting-Specifying Engineer,mhoske@cfemedia.com.

Headquartered in Madison, Wis., CSIA is a resource for control system integration. CSIA helps members improve business skills, provides a forum to share industry expertise, and promotes the benefits of hiring a certified control system integrator. CSIA has more than 400 members in 27 countries.